PDRA in Surface Studies of Heterogeneous Catalysts
About Us
Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility, providing high-brilliance synchrotron radiation from infra-red to X-rays, which is used for academic and industry research and development across a range of scientific disciplines including structural biology, physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, earth, and environmental sciences.
About the Role
We now have an opportunity for a Post Doctoral Research Associate in Surface Studies of Heterogeneous Catalysts to work on the VerSoX (B07) beamline for a 30-month fixed term contract, starting before 1st September 2025.
The VerSox (B07) beamline is largely dedicated to surface-sensitive X-ray spectroscopy, both in ultra-high vacuum and ambient-pressure environments, and used for studies of heterogeneous catalysts under mild reaction conditions and related research, such as electrochemical or biological interfaces.
The main scientific objective of this position is to develop a better understanding of the relationship between structure/composition and activity/selectivity of well-defined catalyst interfaces, in particular interfaces that lead to enantioselectivity in chemical reactions. The aim is to study the same interfaces both in ultra-high vacuum and ambient-pressure environments and determine the effect of solvent molecules on the interaction of reactants on the catalyst surface. Typically, data analysis is often based on theoretical modelling, which is carried out by collaborating groups.
You will refine a research programme within this area, coordinate beamtime proposals, carry out experiments in-house and at beamlines of other facilities, and coordinate work with collaborators.
Other responsibilities will include:
- Operating and further developing the beamline’s liquid cell programme.
- Supporting users and other in-house researchers.
- Periodically reviewing literature.
- Maintaining contact with national and international project partners.
You will be expected to work occasionally outside normal office hours and carry out some work at facilities outside Diamond.
About You
You will have an appropriate science degree and PhD.
You will demonstrate experience in:
- Soft x-ray techniques for chemical and structural analysis of surfaces such as x-ray absorption or photoemission spectroscopy and/or other surface-sensitive techniques used to study single-crystal model catalysts.
- Research areas such as Heterogenous Catalysis or Surface Science.
- Scientific data collection.
- Full data analysis including relevant programming.
- Ambient-pressure or operando experiments (experience in this area is desirable)
Benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.
To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.
The closing date for applications is 5th May 2025.
Other information
Diamond is open to different ways of working and we are committed to supporting our employees to have more flexibility and autonomy over where, when and how long they work.
Where relevant, and possible for the role, we will consider flexible working arrangements, secondment and job share opportunities.
Diamond attracts talented individuals from around the world and currently employ 56 different nationalities. Reflecting trends in our sector we employ more men than women. Therefore, we particularly welcome applications from suitably qualified women.
If you are disabled and would like to be considered under the Disability Confident Scheme, please let us know via the online application process.
Diamond are members of Working Families (the UK’s work-life balance organisation) and we have also achieved the Disability Confident Level Two award.